Matthew Sheard
Sport and Exercise Science graduate with practical experience in physiotherapy, neuromuscular rehabilitation, sports science, and strength and conditioning
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About
Triple Distinction* (D*D*D*) Sport and Exercise Science graduate with practical experience across physiotherapy, neuromuscular rehabilitation, sports science, strength and conditioning and elite athlete performance. Strong academic foundation in functional anatomy, biomechanics, physiology, sports and injury assessment, sports massage, fitness testing and exercise prescription. Currently completing Level 3 & 4 Sports Massage Therapy alongside continued professional development.
Recently became registered as an accredited S&C Trainer of the UK Strength and Conditioning Association. Experienced in football at a high level, including representing Lancashire and playing step 7 of the English football pyramid, alongside 4 years of gym-based training. Highly motivated to develop a career in physiotherapy and sports rehabilitation, with a particular interest in evidence based rehabilitation, injury prevention and performance.
Experience
Physiotherapy Work Experience at Neurotherapyworx
Two-week placement shadowing physiotherapists within a clinical environment.
- Shadowed physiotherapists within a clinical environment and developed a strong understanding of the role and responsibilities of a physiotherapist
- Observed individualised rehabilitation programmes involving functional strengthening, balance training and mobility exercises
- Observed functional exercises including sit-to-stand progressions and short-distance walking activities designed around the individual's ability and rehabilitation goals
- Developed an understanding of how assessment findings can inform individualised treatment planning
- Observed gait assessment and learned how movement patterns can contribute to identifying physical impairments and informing rehabilitation strategies
- Observed rehabilitation focused on lower-limb strength and mobility, including stretching and strengthening around the calf and Achilles region
- Gained insight into patient education, including pacing strategies to manage symptoms and reduce the likelihood of pain flare-ups during everyday activities
- Developed an understanding of the importance of functional independence and restoring mobility and strength within rehabilitation
- Observed the importance of holistic, patient-centred care and professional standards within physiotherapy
- Developed a greater appreciation of communication, professionalism, empathy and adapting rehabilitation to individual patient needs
Physiotherapy & Sports Science Work Experience at Burnley FC
One-week placement shadowing physiotherapists and lead sports scientists within a professional football environment.
- Shadowed physiotherapists and lead sports scientists within a professional football environment
- Observed the day-to-day responsibilities of physiotherapy and sports science staff
- Gained insight into the role of rehabilitation, physical preparation and performance support within elite sport
- Developed an understanding of how different professionals contribute to athlete health, recovery and performance
- Observed the importance of communication, professionalism and multidisciplinary working within a professional sporting environment
Elite Athlete Performance Gym - Coaching/Observation at Burnley College (2024-12 – 2026-06)
- Participated in the Elite Athlete Performance Gym programme for two years, developing practical knowledge and experience in strength and conditioning
- Applied principles of strength and conditioning to personal athletic development
- From December 2025, gained additional experience observing and supporting training sessions
- Provided coaching tips and guidance to other athletes within the gym environment
- Developed confidence communicating with athletes and adapting coaching advice to individual performance needs
- Strengthened understanding of exercise technique, training principles and athlete development
Football Coaching at Burnley College
- Coached football sessions for groups of 17–18-year-old players
- Designed and delivered training sessions based on the needs of the group
- Assessed player performance and adapted coaching approaches accordingly
- Developed leadership, communication and organisation skills
- Worked collaboratively with players and coaching staff to support performance development
Player at Lancashire Football (2025 – Present)
- Represented Lancashire at county football level
- Competed in league and cup competitions against teams across the North West and Northern counties
- Reached the Northern Counties Schools FA Under-18s KO Cup Final – The Geoff Jennett Trophy
Football Team Captain at Burnley College
- Captained the college football team during a successful league-winning season
- Demonstrated leadership, communication and responsibility within a competitive team environment
- Supported teammates both on and off the pitch
Education
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sports and Exercise Science – Burnley College (2024-09 – 2026-06)
GCSE in General Education – Secondary School
